相關申請案之交叉參考 本申請案主張2016年12月15日申請且題為「Device and Method for Screening Gemstones」之美國臨時專利申請案第62/435,045號之優先權，該案藉此以全文引用方式併入本文中。定義
用於創造合成寶石(例如，鑽石)之技術已變得更複雜；高品質合成寶石在外觀上十分接近地球開採之真寶石，使吾人使用裸眼幾乎不可能進行區分。然而，在地球開採之真寶石與合成寶石之間存在本質差異。 此類差異之一者係天然寶石一旦曝光至一光源(例如，一UV光源)則有能力發射螢光。舉例而言，發光分析係偵測鑽石之結晶缺陷之一高度敏感且準確方法。絕大多數天然鑽石通常包含與氮相關之缺陷，其等在UV激發下可產生可見光學信號。另一方面，合成鑽石及鑽石模擬物不包含相同之與氮相關之缺陷，而多數開採之鑽石包含該等缺陷。因此，可透過發光分析容易地識別開採之鑽石。 鑽石中之螢光偵測用作一實例。然而，其決不應限制本發明之範疇。本文揭示之系統、設備及方法可應用於任一類型寶石，包含(但不限於)鑽石、紅寶石、藍寶石、綠寶石、蛋白石、海藍寶石、貴橄欖石及金綠寶石(貓眼)、紅柱石、斧石、錫石、斜矽鎂石、紅綠柱石等。 如本文揭示，可互換地使用術語「天然寶石」、「正宗寶石」、「地球開採之寶石」及「真正寶石」。 如本文揭示，可互換地使用術語「探針」、「光纖探針」、「光纖探針」。 在一個態樣中，本文揭示一種用於識別天然寶石之系統(例如，圖1A至圖1E)。圖1A描繪一寶石篩選系統之一例示性設置，該寶石篩選系統包含一電腦、一篩選裝置(包含一光學探針)、電源及各種連接纜線。 當前系統之光學設計在諸多態樣中不同於此項技術者已知之光學設計(例如，中國專利第CN 202383072 U)，包含光源、集光方法及波長分離方法。特定言之，系統在開放空間中使用一光學探針，從而使其有可能量測裸鑽及鑲嵌近戰鑽石兩者。 圖1B展示一電力供應器。圖1C展示一樣本篩選裝置：裝置之多數組件自一框中之視域隱藏。裝置之一關鍵特徵係完全曝光且在框外之一延長探針。該探針在分析期間用於接觸一寶石。諸多既有可攜式寶石篩選裝置具有在分析前可將一寶石放置在其處之一經圍封平台。平台係在在分析期間更靠外部之一隔間內。此等篩選裝置不使用一探針，更不用說一外部探針。 圖1D展示可如何將裝置連接至電源及一電腦(經由一USB埠)。圖1E展示來自UV光源(框內)之輻射自框經由一第一埠遞送；且自寶石收集之光學信號經由一分離埠經饋送至框中。 圖1A中描繪之樣本系統包含以下品項： ○ 鑲嵌鑽石篩選裝置-1pcs ○ AC/DC壁掛式配接器15V 36W-1pcs ○ 線內電源開關-1pcs ○ USB 2.0 A至USB 2.0 B纜線-1pcs ○ 光纖探針-1pcs 系統可根據以下啟動。首先，前面板連接及後面板連接(例如，圖1D及圖1E)藉由以下完成：使用一USB纜線連接後面板及電腦；連接電源纜線；將光纖探針連接至前面板同時保持開關關斷。此處，重要的係不切換光纖腿。光源之一提示標記在光纖上。建議光纖腿兩者同時皆連接至裝置以避免使光纖彎曲。 圖1F展示另一例示性篩選裝置之一示意性圖解，包含一中心裝置、探針、電源配接器及開關。在此類實施例中，無需一分離電腦裝置。舉例而言，中心裝置可包含用於顯示分析結果之一顯示器。在一些實施例中，中心裝置包含容許一使用者選擇各種選項繼續一試驗程序之一或多個按鈕。在一些實施例中，中心裝置包含具有一處理器及一記憶體之一電腦微晶片，其用於執行用於實施一測試程序之方法步驟。在一些實施例中，顯示器係一觸控螢幕。舉例而言，一使用者可自觸控螢幕上顯示之一選單選擇選項。實體按鈕不再係必須的。在一些實施例中，微晶片可控制光源。舉例而言，UV光源(例如，一或多個UV LED)可由微晶片透過一觸控螢幕上顯示之選單選項開啟或關閉。 在一些實施例中，測試結果可經由一揚聲器口頭宣佈。 在一些實施例中，圖1F之例示性實施例維持結構組件之部分，包含經由兩個光纖連接至中心裝置之一外部探針：一者用於將UV光源提供至經測試之一樣本石頭，及另一者用於自樣本石頭收集螢光信號。在一些實施例中，光纖在各經連接至中心裝置之前分離成兩個光纜(例如，圖1C及圖1E)。在一些實施例中，兩個光纜經標記以展示其等之差異；例如，使用文字標記或程式碼或不同顏色。在一些實施例中，光纖可在進入中心裝置之後分離。亦可使用其他合適組態。 在一些實施例中，圖1F之中心裝置可包含一記憶體埠，諸如一USB埠。記憶體埠容許一使用者例如經由一USB記憶鍵保存及傳送試驗結果。在一些實施例中，中心裝置亦可包含提供網路連接之一網路通信埠。 圖1G展示具有一觸控螢幕顯示器及一外部探針之一例示性試驗裝置。一觸控螢幕上之例示性選單設計可發現於圖12A至圖12E中。 在一個態樣中，本文揭示一種用於識別一天然寶石之例示性篩選系統(例如，圖2A至圖2D)。圖2A展示經設計以依385 nm發射光之一LED光源。一方面，來自光源之光經由一光纖探針經遞送至一寶石。另一方面，由探針自一寶石收集之光(例如，螢光發射)行進通過一耦合器且到達一光譜儀以供量測及特性化。在一些實施例中，可使用具有除了385 nm之一波長之一或多個LED光源。如本文揭示，一LED光源可具有大約15 nm、大約10 nm或大約5 nm之一波長展開度。在一些實施例中，一LED光源可具有大於15 nm或小於5 nm之一波長展開度。 熟習此項技術者可選擇具有一波長或最適於所分析之樣本之一波長範圍之一LED燈。舉例而言，360 nm與405 nm之間之任一波長可導致天然鑽石中之吸收及後續螢光。然而，一天然鑽石在385 nm、395 nm及403 nm處具有強吸收峰值，其中385係最強。因而，大約385 nm之一光源將產生最佳螢光結果。 圖2B展示一樣本LED光源。圖2C展示一長通濾波器(例如，具有409 nm或410 nm之一波長)，其可用於探針與光譜儀之間之耦合器中以增強信號偵測。 圖2D描繪具有一探針尖端之一例示性反射探針，為了有效地將光遞送至一寶石及自一寶石收集光。在一些實施例中，探針大小小於一寶石之一大小。在一些實施例中，樣本寶石可略小於探針。一般言之，一更小光纖探針可提供更佳空間解析度。舉例而言，可使用具有一小尖端之一反射探針。期望一(十分)小尖端進行反射量測。在一些實施例中，小尖端反射探針具有5 mm或更小、4 mm或更小、3 mm或更小、2 mm或更小或1 mm或更小之一探針直徑。在一些實施例中，探針直徑係1.5 mm。在一些實施例中，探針直徑係2.5 mm。探針可具有任一合適長度；例如，200 mm或更短、150 mm或更短、100 mm或更短、50 mm或更短、25 mm或更短、或10 mm或更短。在一些實施例中，探針可具有200 mm或更長之一長度。 在一些實施例中，探針可經組態具有一照明腿，該照明腿具有：六個200 μm光纜，其連接至一光纖耦合光源；及一單一200 μm讀取光纜，其經由至一光譜儀之連接量測反射。 在一些實施例中，一光學狹縫用於光譜儀中以限制輸送量同時改良光譜解析度。狹縫可係適於一特定分析之任一大小，包含(但不限於)例如50微米或更小、75 微米或更小、或100微米或更小。在一些實施例中，可使用大於100 微米之一狹縫。 一特殊有角光纖支撐架(AFH-15)對1.5 mm直徑反射探針有用。在一些實施例中，裝置實現在15度、30度、45度、60度、75度及90度下之角度之反射量測。 如本文揭示之一篩選裝置具有眾多能力，包含(但不限於)(例如)：識別無色或接近無色(例如，自D至Z色彩等級)天然鑽石及來自合成鑽石之棕色鑽石、經處理鑽石及鑽石模擬物；對珠寶設置中之鑲嵌鑽石進行測試；對具有較佳地大於0.9 mm (大約0.005克拉大小)之直徑之裸鑽進行測試；及在大約3秒或更少內使用視覺及聲音通知兩者提供實時測試結果。在一些實施例中，可在2秒或更少內提供測試結果。 此裝置基於其篩選功能開發及設計。裝置本身不具有用於接收使用者命令之一使用者介面。代替地，自電腦操作之軟體自動收集及分析信號以偵測鑽石之發光型樣。其基於彼等鑽石之發光型樣之存在識別天然鑽石，同時無需彼等型樣引用樣本以供進一步測試。 此裝置可用於裸鑽及鑲嵌珠寶測試兩者。其係針對具有任何形狀之無色至接近無色(D至Z色彩等級)鑽石及棕色鑽石而設計。一光纖探針導引UV光源激發所測試樣本(若存在)之發光效應，且接著，將光學信號收集至裝置內部之感測器中。裝置之軟體在螢幕上使用聲音通知提供一容易讀取結果，此使使用者能夠在執行測試時使用兩隻手。 若天然鑽石之發光型樣由裝置偵測，則將顯示一肯定或「通過」測試結果，從而指示試驗樣本係一地球開採之天然鑽石。若未偵測到鑽石之發光型樣，將顯示一非肯定或「提交」測試結果，從而指示所測試樣本可係一合成鑽石、一經處理鑽石或一鑽石模擬物，應引用其以供進一步測試。 圖3A繪示可如何在來自一LED光源之UV輻射經遞送至光纖探針且在寶石上發光之前最佳化其。在一些實施例中，一帶通LED用於消除量測中之LED反射。在一些實施例中，一LED光源經放置於一散熱器上以進行有效冷卻以保證起合適作用。在展示之實例性方案中，來自LED光源之UV輻射首先到達經定位於距LED光源一第一後焦距長度(BFL1)處之透鏡#1。在一些實施例中，經準直光行進通過經組態以具有一第一預定波長(例如，依390 nm)之一短通濾波器。因而，僅短於390 nm之光波長可經過濾波器且到達透鏡#2。連接至光纖探針之光纖埠定位於距透鏡#2一第二後焦距長度(BFL2)處。透鏡#2聚焦來自短通濾波器之平行光束且將所得光遞送至光纖探針。 圖3A中描繪之系統藉由消除高於390 nm之光譜密度顯著切割LED輸出。如圖3B中展示，消除高於400 nm之顯著光譜，所得LED光源更集中且對LED功率位準中之變化較不敏感。 圖3C描繪一例示性實施例，其繪示短通濾波器及長通濾波器之用途。短通濾波器及長通濾波器用於分離來自所得螢光輻射之激發輻射。如所展示，短通濾波器依一第一波長設定，且長通濾波器依一第二波長設定，其中第一波長短於第二波長。因而，激發輻射之效應與所得螢光輻射之效應分離。在圖3C中，展示大約400 nm及略低於400 nm之第一波長，且展示大約412 nm之第二波長。熟習此項技術者應理解，此對波長非限制至本文揭示之值。波長可根據正分析之樣本設定，特定言之，基於其吸收及螢光特性。 圖4A繪示可如何在自一寶石發射之螢光信號經遞送至一偵測器之前處理該等螢光信號。舉例而言，由光纖探針收集之信號首先到達定位於距光纖探針之端一第三後焦距(BFL3)處之透鏡#3。此處，經準直光行進通過另一濾波器：一長通濾波器。在一些實施例中，長通濾波器經組態以傳遞具有高於一預定波長(例如，409 nm)之波長之光。在此實例中，僅具有長於490 nm之一波長之光到達經定位於距偵測器(例如，圖2A中展示之光譜儀)一第四後焦距(BFL4)處之透鏡#4。透鏡#4重聚焦經濾波螢光信號且將其等遞送至偵測器以供量測及/或特性化。 圖4B繪示在圖4A中濾波之螢光信號之效應。在此特定實例中，消除低於409 nm或410 nm之信號。如上文所提及，來自LED光源之信號皆低於390 nm，從而使LED光信號不可能干擾螢光信號之量測及/或特性化。因此，來自激發光源之輸出及螢光信號之輸入與彼此分離。 在一些實施例中，短通濾波器及長通濾波器不會導致具有任一重疊波長光譜之光信號。 圖5A繪示一完整裝置設置，其中來自光源及UV輻射及來自一樣本寶石(例如，一鑽石)之螢光發射兩者皆使用濾波器設定修改。如所展示，光學組件，包含光源、偵測器及各種濾波器設定可使用一虛線框來組織。在實務上，此等組件可經組裝於一隔間或框(參見例如圖2A)中，從而僅曝光光纖探針及將探針連接至隔間之纜線。在一些實施例中，隔間或框係防光的。僅隔間上之開口係用於連接至電源或探針之埠。 除了鑽石之螢光之光學信號可干擾測試且減小敏感度。在一些實施例中，為了最大化敏感度，需要在執行試驗時將可產生一螢光信號之任一材料保持遠離探針，諸如白紙、人體皮膚、手套、灰塵及油。舉例而言，諸多材料可產生可在大於1 mW 385激發下偵測螢光信號，此可干擾篩選，例如，手指、紙張、衣服、塑料等等。來自此等材料之螢光導致可與來自一樣本寶石之信號重疊之雜訊。在一些實施例中，此類雜訊可由軟體演算法濾除。然而，其可減小偵測敏感度。在一些實施例中，當由裝置執行感測時建議避免此等材料。 在一些實施例中，應避免對樣本之強光曝光。在一些實施例中，若必要，則房間燈光應變暗，因為系統使用收集來自自由空間之光學信號之一光纖探針。 為保證最優效能，應在測試石頭或珠寶之前清理之。接著，一使用者可開啟光源且接著使用光纖探針輕輕地觸摸石頭。在一些實施例中，探針至表面之入射角應維持在小於30°，如圖5B中指示。 在一些實施例中，裝置用於測試鑲嵌樣本石頭。建議使用此裝置測試經分離(不接觸彼此)以避免同時量測多個樣本之樣本。 在一些實施例中，一樣本寶石(諸如一鑽石)自桌子角度量測，而探針至表面之入射角經保持在小於30°。在一些實施例中，一樣本寶石(諸如一鑽石)自亭部角度量測。 在一些實施例中，裝置用於測試樣本裸石。在一些實施例中，寶石具有至少1 mm或更寬之一寬度以供測試。建議收集來自石桌之信號以達成最高敏感度；然而，只要信號足夠強，則自亭部或其他表面執行測試係可行的。在一些實施例中，若鑽石直徑小於1.5 mm，則一使用者應避免自亭部或尖底執行測試以防止損壞光纖頭。在一些實施例中，例如，對於裸鑽，應避免探針頭直接接觸所測試樣本。 圖6A繪示具有由一螢光比色計鑑定之不同位準之藍色螢光之10個樣本寶石(鑽石)。圖6B中之表列出針對各樣本寶石進行之具體量測。基於螢光發射之強度及經計算N3/拉曼值，樣本石頭1至6經識別為天然。石頭#7至#10未展示LWUV燈或一螢光裝置下之螢光，且將引用以供進一步分析。 圖6C描繪相同10個石頭之螢光強度，其展示裝置高度敏感。 在一些實施例中，藉由增加曝光時間有可能改良偵測敏感度。圖6D繪示長時間曝光之效應。此處，樣本石頭#1至#6展示與圖6B中之量測一致之同一螢光輪廓。另外，藉由增加對石頭#7至#10之曝光時間，儘管對於石頭#7和#8觀察到類似較弱螢光輪廓。圖6D中之分析進一步將石頭#7及#8識別為天然石頭。 基於N3缺陷之存在之螢光偵測在描述當前系統及方法時用作一實例。不應依任一方式限制本發明之範疇。在一些實施例中，一些天然鑽石展示無N3缺陷之一可偵測螢光。舉例而言，強A中心鑽石展示白色螢光。具有480 nm吸收帶之鑽石展示黃色螢光。參見例如圖6E。硬體及/或軟體(參見下文)調整可用於達成此螢光偵測且識別天然寶石(諸如鑽石)。且基於此等螢光型樣，圖6E中之分析進一步將石頭#9及#10識別為天然石頭。 如本文揭示，N3
缺陷及對應螢光可用於偵測天然鑽石。在一些實施例中，一鑽石可能不具有足夠N3
缺陷以導致足以供偵測之數據，或可具有可淬滅N3
螢光信號之其他缺陷。在一些實施例中，其他螢光數據，包含(但不限於)綠色螢光、白色螢光、綠色螢光或黃色螢光，可用於促進天然鑽石偵測。在一些實施例中，可使用除N3
螢光數據外之額外螢光數據。 在一些實施例中，圖6A至圖6F中繪示之不同位準或類型分析可在一輪光學/螢光分析中經組合作為順序步驟。此組合可透過軟體整合達成。舉例而言，光學分析可以天然石頭最常見標記或缺陷之偵測開始，其後接著用於偵測相對罕見之標記或缺陷之方法。舉例而言，在圖6A至圖6F中展示之實例中，N3缺陷最常見，且可用於藉由曝光時間之簡單變動偵測大多數天然石頭(石頭#1至#8)。黃色螢光相對罕見，然可在石頭#9及#10中偵測。 在一些實施例中，本文揭示之方法及系統用於識別D至Z分級範圍之天然無色鑽石(參見例如圖7及圖8)。在一些實施例中，本文揭示之方法及系統可用於偵測經處理粉色鑽石(參見例如圖9)。 在一些實施例中，本文揭示之方法及系統用於識別天然色鑽石。例示性彩色寶石包含(但不限於)紅寶石、藍寶石、剛玉、黃玉、綠寶石、尖晶石、石榴石、黝簾石等。天然來源之彩色石頭之亮度光譜揭露相異光發射型樣(參見例如圖10)。 如本文揭示，來自寶石之特性螢光可用於識別嵌入於樣本石頭中之礦物質之類型，藉此識別鑽石、剛玉(紅寶石、藍寶石)、尖晶石、綠寶石、黝簾石(藍黝簾石)及一些黃玉及石榴石。 在一些實施例中，可建立不同類型寶石之亮度光譜之一或多個庫，自無色至接近無色鑽石、粉色鑽石及紅寶石、藍寶石、剛玉、黃玉、綠寶石、尖晶石、石榴石、黝簾石及其他。在一些實施例中，可建立各類型寶石之亮度簽章曲線之一集合。 在一個態樣中，本文揭示一種用於操作及控制寶石篩選之軟體平台。 與本文揭示之分析一致，當前系統及方法之一軟體平台可包含用於實施兩種重要類型功能之一使用者介面：校準及樣本分析。 在一些實施例中，一校準可包含環境光校準。每當使用者啟動軟體時皆需要環境光校準。環境光譜取決於工作站之背景光譜。建議在任一潛在背景光譜改變之後，使用軟體之前，運作此功能以維持敏感度。 在一些實施例中，一校準亦可包含暗校準。在一些實施例中，暗校準可係任選的。舉例而言，當暗校準數據不可用時，例如，當，數據丟失或當第一次使用一新感測器之初次使用時，軟體介面將要求一使用者執行一暗校準。在一些實施例中，在暗校準期間，光纖探針經移除，且用於連接探針之空埠可由連接器蓋覆蓋。 在一些實施例中，系統可經設定以週期性地執行校準。在一些實施例中，系統可經設定以每當系統重啟時自動執行校準。 當執行樣本分析時，系統可包含用於收集一特定樣本之螢光數據之預設曝光時間。在一些實施例中，系統可取決於在一特定數據收集回合期間收集之信號自動調整曝光時間。 在一些實施例中，當數據指示有歧義結果時，系統可向使用者呈現一選項以重複特定樣本之分析。 在一些實施例中，當所關注螢光簽章接近環境光(450 nm至650 nm之間)之主特徵時，所觸發之一校準程序包括在類似於一實際量測程序之條件之條件下收集一環境光譜。環境光譜藉由在UV源關斷時將探針移動至接近樣本來收集。 在一些實施例中，在收集了環境光譜之後，環境光譜及經量測光譜兩者經歸一化成一0至1比例且記錄比例因子。在一些實施例中，環境光譜中峰值或局部最大值之位置經識別及用作一檢查點。 在一樣本環境光校準程序中，一權重經分配至經歸一化環境光譜。在一些實施例中，權重以0開始。在一些實施例中，權重以0.1、0.2、0.3等開始。當UV光源開啟時亦收集一樣本寶石之一量測光譜。量測光譜可經歸一化。隨後，加權環境光譜自經歸一化經量測光譜減去。緊接著，檢查先前識別之檢查點周圍之光譜曲線之平滑度。若平滑度滿足要求，則返回一經校準量測光譜。若平滑度不滿足要求，則可按0.05調整經歸一化環境光譜之權重。如本文揭示，調整可係一增加或一減少。平滑擬合步驟可係一迭代程序。權重調整可根據預設標準自動產生或由一使用者手動鍵入。在一些實施例中，一裝配結構可經應用以提取一最佳化權重。 在裝配步驟之後，經校準量測光譜可經按比例縮放回至其原始比例，且用於進一步分析中。 如本文揭示，若環境光由一或多個螢光燈提供，則校準係強制性的，此係因為來自一螢光燈之峰值可壓倒鑽石之螢光光譜。實例
以下非限制性實例經提供以進一步繪示本文揭示之本發明之實施例。熟習此項技術者應瞭解，在下面之實例中揭示之技術代表已經發現在本發明之實踐中發揮良好作用之方法，且因此可認為其等構成其實踐模式之實例。然而，鑑於本發明，熟習此項技術者應瞭解，可在不背離本發明之精神及範疇之情況下，在所揭示且仍獲得一相似或類似結果之具體實施例中作出諸多改變。實例 1 例示性 N3 分析
圖7A展示一天然鑽石之一例示性N3螢光光譜。此處，介於410 nm與450 nm之間識別三個峰值。所選擇數據自各峰值提取以計算可表示峰值之特性。 舉例而言，對於圖7A中展示之三個峰值之各者，判定一峰值強度值及一參考強度值。接著，計算一峰值至參考比。在圖7A中展示之實例中，415.6 nm下之峰值強度最具代表性。N3在室溫下在415.6 nm下具有一零聲子線，且本文揭示之分析係為了確認此峰值及其相對側峰值。此比分析僅係達成峰值分析之諸多方法之一者。在一些實施例中，使用415.6 nm下之峰值，此係因為此峰值位置在室溫下十分穩定。 如本文揭示，多光譜可經收集以判定多個峰值及其等之對應峰值至參考比。一或多個峰值可經選擇以基於峰值比進行進一步處理。在後續分析中不需要使用所有峰值。 圖7B展示特性化一螢光帶之一實例。一螢光帶之品質基於若干參數確證，包含中心強度值、以nm為單位之帶寬及一參考強度值。在此實例中，參考強度值基於一HPHT合成鑽石之螢光光譜判定，此用作一負控制。如所繪示，仍有可能使用中心及帶寬識別來自一天然鑽石之此類型螢光光譜。相比而言，HPHT合成鑽石不展示一強螢光帶。實例 2 無色鑽石分析
圖8繪示無色鑽石之分析結果。當前方法(使用N3
分析)可正確地識別所測試之1660個天然鑽石及1077個合成近戰鑽石之中之97%之天然鑽石。 額外2%之天然鑽石基於其等之螢光光譜進一步識別；例如，基於螢光光譜之中心帶寬(例如，圖7B)。可在100%準確度下偵測合成鑽石及鑽石模擬物。 在圖8中右側，天然原始鑽石之發射或亮度曲線與一典型合成鑽石之發射或螢光曲線相比較。該等曲線描繪自略高於400 nm (由長通濾波器判定)至大約750 nm之可見範圍中之螢光發射，其覆蓋自紫色至紅色之色譜。如所描繪，一旦曝光至一UV光源，一合成鑽石未展示在偵測範圍中之可觀測發射。另一方面，天然來源之鑽石展示顯著光發射。在一些實施例中，一些天然鑽石不具有可偵測N3
光譜。實例 3 粉色鑽石分析
不同類型處理，例如，高溫高壓(HPHT)、輻射及/或退火，已用於增強粉色鑽石之顏色外觀。然而，在程序之後，其亦放大或引入在天然未經處理粉色鑽石中十分難以發現之一些特徵。圖9藉由比較一天然粉色鑽石與一經處理粉色鑽石之光譜特徵繪示粉色鑽石之分析結果。在此實例中，特性螢光可用於識別已透過溫度或壓力處理處理之粉色鑽石。頂部光譜係一天然粉色鑽石之螢光曲線，而底部曲線展示一經處理粉色鑽石之螢光光譜。值得注意的係，一天然粉色鑽石在540 nm之後(特定言之，在560 nm或580 nm之後)不展示顯著發射。 一經處理粉色鑽石介於540 nm與660 nm之間展現極大發射。特定言之，介於560 nm與580 nm之間觀測一經處理粉色鑽石之橘色範圍中之一相異螢光峰值，其可用作用於識別經處理粉色鑽石之一簽章參考。一方面，經處理(色彩增強)粉色鑽石展示在天然粉色鑽石中罕見之以下特徵：504 (H3)處之峰值、575 (N-V)0
處之峰值及637 (N-V)-
處之峰值。另一方面，絕大多數天然未經處理粉色鑽石不具有一明確575 nm峰值。此等峰值可單獨或依組合使用以識別處理。此等特徵在色彩增強程序期間產生。實例 4 額外類型寶石
諸多礦物質由金屬離子雜質著色。除改變彼等礦物質及寶石之外觀外，金屬離子之部分亦可促成螢光。舉例而言，鉻係諸多礦物質中紅色螢光之一重要原因。基於螢光光譜，此等寶石之亮度光譜可用於識別其等之對應礦物類型。 圖10繪示不同色彩之寶石之分析結果，其展示覆蓋可用彩色石頭之一顯著廣度之6種類型彩色石頭之亮度特徵。在此實例中，本文揭示之方法及系統用於識別不同顏色寶石之礦物類型。例示性彩色寶石包含(但不限於)紅寶石、藍寶石、剛玉、黃玉、綠寶石、尖晶石、石榴石、黝簾石等。天然來源之彩色石頭之亮度光譜揭露相異光發射型樣。 舉例而言，鉻係促成此等礦物質中之紅色螢光之主要微量元素。由近紫色光激發，超過90%之剛玉及尖晶石、超過95%之綠寶石及超過80%之黝簾石產生相異紅色螢光特徵。另外，黃玉及石榴石之部分亦產生可辨識光譜。藉由使用峰值位置及帶寬，吾人創造一寶石識別演算法，其可快速識別對應礦物類型。實例 5 樣本使用者介面
圖11A至圖11F繪示來自操作及控制寶石篩選裝置之一樣本軟體程式之樣本螢幕擷取畫面。 一使用者可藉由雙擊圖11A中描繪之快捷方式圖標啟動程式。圖11A中展示之歡迎頁顯示程式之序號。在此步驟處，軟體可偵測一光學感測器之存在。若未偵測到感測器，則可建議一使用者關閉軟體並檢查USB連接。 藉由選擇圖11B中展示之環境光校準功能開始選單有可能執行環境光校準。在校準可繼續之前，需要打開LED光源。一使用者應使用光纖探針輕輕接觸樣本(鑽石)，且接著點選「開始」。常見光源之典型光譜包含於圖11C中。 藉由點選暗校準選單上之開始圖標(例如，參見圖11D)，軟體將自動校準暗信號。暗校準用作一負控制，其表示無需量測之一開始。一旦完成，則一使用者可點選一「下一步」圖標完成暗校準。 在校準之後，一使用者可接通LED光源且繼續寶石測試，如圖8E中展示。一使用者可使用光纖探針輕輕接觸樣本寶石(例如，一鑽石)。識別結果可藉由圖及語音兩者呈現。軟體可運作於連續模式中直至使用者按壓「停止測試」。在一些實施例中，綠色檢查標記表示「通過」；且黃色問號表示「提交」，如以下表中所展示。
注意：在天然鑽石之中，大約1%之石頭將由此裝置「提交」以供進一步測試。 在圖11E或圖11F中描繪之介面處，一使用者可選定藉由點選「停止測試」選擇結束測試。 圖12A至圖12E繪示另一例示性使用者介面。樣本螢幕擷取畫面來自使用一內建微電腦操作及控制一寶石篩選裝置之另一樣本軟體程式(例如，圖1F及圖1G)。此處，使用一觸控螢幕。用於執行特定任務之選單選項經呈現作為觸控螢幕上之按鈕。代替推動裝置上之一實體按鈕，一使用者現可觸控觸控螢幕上之一選項(例如，圖12A中之一校準按鈕及圖12B中之一測試按鈕)。圖12C至圖12E展示可在任一階段處停止分析；例如，在返回一通過或提交結果之後(例如，圖12C及圖12D)或在分析期間(例如，圖12E)。 圖12A至圖12E中繪示之使用者介面較簡單，此可實現一簡單及緊湊設備設計。 已詳細描述本發明，應明白，修改、變動及等效實施例係可行的而不背離附隨發明申請專利範圍中界定之本發明之範疇。此外，應瞭解，本發明中之所有實例經提供作為非限制性實例。 上文描述之各種方法及技術提供若干方法來實施本發明。當然，應理解，並非所描述之所有目標或優點可根據本文描述之任一特定實施例達成。因此，例如，熟習此項技術者應認識到，可依達成或最佳化如本文教示之一個優點或一群組優點之一方式執行該等方法，而無需達成如本文可教示或建議之其他目標或優點。本文提及多種優點及缺點替代例。應理解，一些較佳實施例具體包含一個優點特徵、另一優點特徵或若干優點特徵，而其他者具體排除一個缺點特徵、另一缺點特徵或若干缺點特徵，而其他者具體藉由包含一個優點特徵、另一優點特徵或若干優點特徵減輕一本缺點特徵。 此外，熟習此項技術者應認識到來自不同實施例之各種特徵之實用性。類似地，上文論述之各種元件、特徵及步驟以及各此元件、特徵或步驟之其他已知等效物可由熟習此項技術者混合及匹配以根據本文描述之原理執行方法。在各種元件、特徵及步驟之中，一些元件、特徵及步驟將具體包含於不同實施例中，且在不同實施例中具體排除其他者。 儘管已在某些實施例及實例之背景內容中揭示了本發明，然熟習此項技術者應理解，本發明之實施例延伸超出具體揭示之實施例至其他替代實施例及/或其等之用途及修改及等效物。 在本發明之實施例中已揭示諸多變動及替代元件。然而，熟習此項技術者應明白進一步變動及替代元件。 在一些實施例中，應理解用於描述及主張本發明之某些實施例之表達成分之數量之數字、諸如分子量之性質、反應條件等，如在一些例項中由術語「大約」修改。據此，在一些實施例中，書面描述及隨附發明申請專利範圍中闡述之數字參數係近似值，其等可取決於力圖由一特定實施例獲得之所要性質改變。在一些實施例中，應鑑於所報告有效位數及藉由應用普通捨入技術解釋數字參數。儘管闡述本發明之一些實施例之廣泛範疇之數字範圍及參數係近似值，然盡可能精確地報告在具體實例中闡述之數值。在本發明之一些實施例中呈現之數值可能含有必然由其等之各自測試量測中發現之標準偏差導致之某些誤差。 在一些實施例中，用於描述本發明之一特定實施例之背景內容中(尤其係在以下發明申請專利申請範圍之某些之背景內容中)之術語「一(a/an)」及「該(等)」及類似參考可經解釋以覆蓋單數及複數兩者。本文中值之範圍之陳述僅意欲用作個別地參考落於該範圍內之各分離值之一速記方法。除非本文另外指示，否則個別值宛如其在本文中個別地所述般經併入至說明書中。本文描述之所有方法可依任一合適順序執行，除非本文另外指示或藉由背景內容另外明確否定。關於本文中某些實施例提供之任何及所有實例或例示性語言(例如，「諸如」)之使用僅意欲更佳說明本發明且不引起對另外主張之本發明之範疇之一限制。說明書中之語言皆不應解釋為指示對本發明之實踐必不可少之任一非主張元件。 本文揭示之本發明之替代元件或實施例之群組不應解釋為限制。可個別地或依與本文發現之群組之其他部件或其他元件之任一組合參考及主張各群組部件。一群組之一或多個部件可包含於便利性及/或可專利性原因之一群組中或自該群組刪除。當發生任一此包含或刪除時，說明書在本文被認為含有如所修改之群組，從而滿足在隨附發明申請專利範圍中使用之所有Markush群組之書面描述。 本文描述本發明之較佳實施例。熟習此項技術者在閱讀前述描述後將變得明白關於彼等較佳實施例之變動。應預期，若適當，熟習此項技術者可採用此類變動，且本發明可依與本文具體描述不同之方式實踐。據此，本發明之諸多實施例包含本發明附隨之如可應用法律准許之發明申請專利範圍中所述之標的之所有修改及等效物。此外，本發明之所有可行變動中之上述元件之任一組合由本發明涵蓋，除非本文另外指示或藉由背景內容另外明確否定。 此外，貫穿此說明書已引用了眾多參考文獻及印刷出版物。上述引用之參考文獻及印刷出版物之各者個別地以全文引用方式併入本文中。 最後，應理解，本文揭示之本發明之實施例繪示本發明之原理。可採用之其他修改可係在本發明之範疇內。因此，藉由實例，然無限制，可根據本文教示利用本發明之替代組態。據此，本發明之實施例不限於如準確展示及描述之實施例。Cross Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to US Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 435,045, filed on December 15, 2016 and entitled "Device and Method for Screening Gemstones", which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Ways are incorporated herein.definition
The technology used to create synthetic gemstones (e.g., diamonds) has become more complex; high-quality synthetic gemstones are very close in appearance to real gems mined by the earth, making it almost impossible for us to distinguish them with the naked eye. However, there are fundamental differences between the real and synthetic gems mined on the earth. One of these differences is the ability of natural gemstones to emit fluorescent light upon exposure to a light source (eg, a UV light source). For example, luminescence analysis is a highly sensitive and accurate method for detecting crystal defects in diamonds. Most natural diamonds often contain nitrogen-related defects that can produce visible optical signals under UV excitation. On the other hand, synthetic diamonds and diamond simulants do not contain the same nitrogen-related defects, and most mined diamonds include these defects. Therefore, the mined diamond can be easily identified through luminescence analysis. Fluorescence detection in diamonds is used as an example. However, it should in no way limit the scope of the invention. The systems, equipment, and methods disclosed herein can be applied to any type of gemstones, including (but not limited to) diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, opals, aquamarine, precious olivine and emerald (cat's eye), andalusite, Axe stone, cassiterite, obsidian xenolite, and beryl. As disclosed herein, the terms "natural gemstone", "authentic gemstone", "earth-mined gemstone", and "real gemstone" are used interchangeably. As disclosed herein, the terms "probe", "optical fiber probe", and "optical fiber probe" are used interchangeably. In one aspect, a system for identifying natural gemstones is disclosed herein (eg, FIGS. 1A-1E). FIG. 1A depicts an exemplary setup of a gem screening system including a computer, a screening device (including an optical probe), a power source, and various connection cables. The optical design of the current system differs from the optical design known to those skilled in the art in many aspects (for example, Chinese Patent No. CN 202383072 U), including a light source, a light collection method, and a wavelength separation method. In particular, the system uses an optical probe in open space, making it possible to measure both loose diamonds and melee diamonds. FIG. 1B shows a power supply. FIG. 1C shows the same screening device: most components of the device are hidden from the viewing area of a box. One of the key features of the device is full exposure and an extended probe outside the frame. The probe is used to contact a gemstone during analysis. Many existing portable gemstone screening devices have an enclosed platform where a gemstone can be placed before analysis. The platform is in one of the compartments that is further outside during the analysis. These screening devices do not use a probe, let alone an external probe. Figure 1D shows how the device can be connected to a power source and a computer (via a USB port). FIG. 1E shows that radiation from a UV light source (inside the frame) is delivered from the frame through a first port; and optical signals collected from the gemstone are fed into the frame through a separate port. The sample system depicted in Figure 1A contains the following items: ○ Inlaid diamond screening device -1pcs ○ AC / DC wall mount adapter 15V 36W-1pcs ○ In-line power switch -1pcs ○ USB 2.0 A to USB 2.0 B cable- 1pcs ○ Fiber Probe-1pcs system can be started according to the following. First, the front-panel connection and the rear-panel connection (for example, Figures 1D and 1E) are completed by: using a USB cable to connect the rear panel and the computer; connecting the power cable; Shut down. Here, the important system does not switch the fiber legs. One of the light sources is promptly marked on the fiber. It is recommended that both fiber legs are connected to the device at the same time to avoid bending the fiber. FIG. 1F shows a schematic diagram of another exemplary screening device including a center device, a probe, a power adapter, and a switch. In such embodiments, a separate computer device is not required. For example, the central device may include a display for displaying analysis results. In some embodiments, the central device includes one or more buttons that allow a user to select various options to continue a test procedure. In some embodiments, the central device includes a computer microchip having a processor and a memory for performing method steps for implementing a test procedure. In some embodiments, the display is a touch screen. For example, a user can select an option from a menu displayed on the touch screen. Physical buttons are no longer required. In some embodiments, the microchip can control the light source. For example, a UV light source (eg, one or more UV LEDs) can be turned on or off by a microchip through a menu option displayed on a touch screen. In some embodiments, the test results may be announced orally via a speaker. In some embodiments, the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1F maintains a portion of a structural component, including an external probe connected to a central device via two optical fibers: one for providing a UV light source to a sample stone tested, And the other is used to collect fluorescent signals from sample stones. In some embodiments, the optical fibers are separated into two optical cables before each being connected to a central device (eg, FIG. 1C and FIG. 1E). In some embodiments, the two fiber optic cables are marked to show their differences; for example, using a text mark or code or different colors. In some embodiments, the optical fiber may be detached after entering the central device. Other suitable configurations can also be used. In some embodiments, the center device of FIG. 1F may include a memory port, such as a USB port. The memory port allows a user to save and transfer test results, such as via a USB memory key. In some embodiments, the central device may also include a network communication port that provides a network connection. FIG. 1G shows an exemplary test device with a touch screen display and an external probe. An exemplary menu design on a touch screen can be found in Figures 12A to 12E. In one aspect, an exemplary screening system for identifying a natural gemstone is disclosed herein (eg, FIGS. 2A-2D). Figure 2A shows one LED light source designed to emit light at 385 nm. In one aspect, light from a light source is delivered to a gemstone via a fiber optic probe. On the other hand, light (e.g., fluorescent emission) collected by a probe from a gemstone travels through a coupler and reaches a spectrometer for measurement and characterization. In some embodiments, one or more LED light sources having a wavelength other than 385 nm may be used. As disclosed herein, an LED light source may have a wavelength spread of about 15 nm, about 10 nm, or about 5 nm. In some embodiments, an LED light source may have a wavelength spread of greater than 15 nm or less than 5 nm. Those skilled in the art may choose an LED lamp having a wavelength or a wavelength range that is most suitable for the sample being analyzed. For example, any wavelength between 360 nm and 405 nm can cause absorption and subsequent fluorescence in natural diamonds. However, a natural diamond has strong absorption peaks at 385 nm, 395 nm, and 403 nm, of which the 385 series is the strongest. Thus, a light source of approximately 385 nm will produce the best fluorescent results. Figure 2B shows a sample LED light source. FIG. 2C shows a long-pass filter (for example, having a wavelength of 409 nm or 410 nm), which can be used in a coupler between a probe and a spectrometer to enhance signal detection. FIG. 2D depicts an exemplary reflective probe with a probe tip in order to efficiently deliver light to and collect light from a gem. In some embodiments, the probe size is smaller than one gemstone size. In some embodiments, the sample gem may be slightly smaller than the probe. In general, a smaller fiber-optic probe provides better spatial resolution. For example, a reflective probe with a small tip can be used. One (ten) small tip is expected to perform reflection measurements. In some embodiments, the small-tip reflection probe has a probe diameter of 5 mm or less, 4 mm or less, 3 mm or less, 2 mm or less, or 1 mm or less. In some embodiments, the probe diameter is 1.5 mm. In some embodiments, the probe diameter is 2.5 mm. The probe can have any suitable length; for example, 200 mm or less, 150 mm or less, 100 mm or less, 50 mm or less, 25 mm or less, or 10 mm or less. In some embodiments, the probe may have a length of 200 mm or more. In some embodiments, the probe can be configured with an illuminating leg having: six 200 μm optical cables connected to a fiber-coupled light source; and a single 200 μm read optical cable that passes to a spectrometer The connection measures reflection. In some embodiments, an optical slit is used in the spectrometer to limit the throughput while improving the spectral resolution. The slit may be any size suitable for a particular analysis, including (but not limited to), for example, 50 microns or less, 75 microns or less, or 100 microns or less. In some embodiments, a slit larger than 100 microns can be used. A special angular fiber support (AFH-15) is useful for 1.5 mm diameter reflection probes. In some embodiments, the device implements reflection measurement at angles of 15 degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 60 degrees, 75 degrees, and 90 degrees. A screening device as disclosed herein has numerous capabilities including, but not limited to, for example: identifying colorless or near-colorless (e.g., D to Z color grades) natural and brown diamonds from synthetic diamonds, treated diamonds, Diamond simulants; testing inlaid diamonds in jewellery settings; testing bare diamonds with diameters preferably greater than 0.9 mm (approximately 0.005 carats); and using visual and audible notifications in about 3 seconds or less Both provide real-time test results. In some embodiments, test results can be provided in 2 seconds or less. This device was developed and designed based on its screening function. The device itself does not have a user interface for receiving user commands. Instead, a computer-operated software automatically collects and analyzes signals to detect the diamond's luminous pattern. It identifies natural diamonds based on the presence of luminescent patterns in their diamonds, and does not require them to cite samples for further testing. This device can be used for both loose diamond and inlaid jewelry testing. It is designed for colorless to near colorless (D to Z color grade) and brown diamonds of any shape. A fiber optic probe guides the UV light source to excite the luminous effect of the test sample (if present), and then collects the optical signal into a sensor inside the device. The device's software uses audible notifications on the screen to provide an easy-to-read result, which enables users to use both hands when performing tests. If the luminous pattern of the natural diamond is detected by the device, a positive or "passed" test result will be displayed, thereby indicating that the test sample is an earth-mined natural diamond. If no diamond luminous pattern is detected, a non-positive or “submitted” test result will be displayed, indicating that the test sample can be a synthetic diamond, a treated diamond, or a diamond simulant, which should be cited for further testing . FIG. 3A illustrates how UV radiation from an LED light source can be optimized before it is delivered to a fiber optic probe and shines on the gemstone. In some embodiments, a band-pass LED is used to eliminate LED reflection during measurement. In some embodiments, an LED light source is placed on a heat sink for effective cooling to ensure proper functioning. In the exemplary solution shown, UV radiation from the LED light source first reaches lens # 1, which is positioned at a first back focal length (BFL1) from the LED light source. In some embodiments, the collimated light travels through a short-pass filter configured to have a first predetermined wavelength (eg, at 390 nm). Thus, only light wavelengths shorter than 390 nm can pass through the filter and reach lens # 2. The fiber port connected to the fiber probe is positioned at a second back focal length (BFL2) from lens # 2. Lens # 2 focuses the parallel beam from the short-pass filter and delivers the resulting light to a fiber probe. The system depicted in Figure 3A significantly cuts the LED output by eliminating spectral densities above 390 nm. As shown in Figure 3B, by eliminating significant spectra above 400 nm, the resulting LED light source is more concentrated and less sensitive to changes in LED power levels. FIG. 3C depicts an exemplary embodiment illustrating the use of a short-pass filter and a long-pass filter. Short-pass filters and long-pass filters are used to separate the excitation radiation from the resulting fluorescent radiation. As shown, the short-pass filter is set according to a first wavelength, and the long-pass filter is set according to a second wavelength, where the first wavelength is shorter than the second wavelength. Thus, the effect of the excitation radiation is separated from the effect of the resulting fluorescent radiation. In FIG. 3C, a first wavelength of about 400 nm and slightly below 400 nm is shown, and a second wavelength of about 412 nm is shown. Those skilled in the art will understand that this wavelength is not limited to the values disclosed herein. The wavelength can be set according to the sample being analyzed, in particular, based on its absorption and fluorescence characteristics. FIG. 4A illustrates how fluorescent signals emitted from a gemstone can be processed before being delivered to a detector. For example, the signal collected by the fiber probe first reaches the lens # 3 located at a third back focal length (BFL3) from the end of the fiber probe. Here, the collimated light travels through another filter: a long-pass filter. In some embodiments, the long-pass filter is configured to pass light having a wavelength higher than a predetermined wavelength (eg, 409 nm). In this example, only light having a wavelength longer than 490 nm reaches lens # 4 positioned at a fourth back focal length (BFL4) from the detector (eg, the spectrometer shown in Figure 2A). Lens # 4 refocuses the filtered fluorescent signal and delivers them to the detector for measurement and / or characterization. FIG. 4B illustrates the effect of the filtered fluorescent signal in FIG. 4A. In this particular example, signals below 409 nm or 410 nm are eliminated. As mentioned above, the signals from the LED light source are all below 390 nm, making it impossible for the LED light signal to interfere with the measurement and / or characterization of the fluorescent signal. Therefore, the output from the excitation light source and the input of the fluorescent signal are separated from each other. In some embodiments, the short-pass filter and the long-pass filter do not result in an optical signal having any overlapping wavelength spectrum. FIG. 5A illustrates a complete device setup, where both the light source and UV radiation and the fluorescent emission from a gemstone (eg, a diamond) are modified using filter settings. As shown, optical components, including light sources, detectors, and various filter settings can be organized using a dashed box. In practice, these components can be assembled in a compartment or frame (see, for example, Figure 2A) to expose only the fiber optic probe and the cable connecting the probe to the compartment. In some embodiments, the compartment or frame is light-proof. Only the openings in the compartment are ports for connection to a power source or probe. Optical signals other than the fluorescence of diamonds can interfere with the test and reduce sensitivity. In some embodiments, to maximize sensitivity, it is necessary to keep any material that can generate a fluorescent signal away from the probe when performing the test, such as white paper, human skin, gloves, dust, and oil. For example, many materials can generate fluorescent signals that can be detected at excitations greater than 1 mW 385, which can interfere with screening, such as fingers, paper, clothing, plastic, and so on. Fluorescence from these materials causes noise that can overlap with signals from the same gemstone. In some embodiments, such noise can be filtered by software algorithms. However, it can reduce detection sensitivity. In some embodiments, it is recommended to avoid such materials when sensing is performed by the device. In some embodiments, strong light exposure to the sample should be avoided. In some embodiments, room lights should be dimmed if necessary because the system uses a fiber optic probe that collects optical signals from free space. To ensure optimum performance, stones or jewelry should be cleaned before testing. Then, a user can turn on the light source and then lightly touch the stone with the fiber optic probe. In some embodiments, the angle of incidence of the probe to the surface should be maintained at less than 30 °, as indicated in Figure 5B. In some embodiments, the device is used to test a mosaic sample stone. It is recommended to use this device to test separated samples (without touching each other) to avoid measuring multiple samples simultaneously. In some embodiments, a gemstone (such as a diamond) is measured from a table angle, and the incident angle of the probe to the surface is maintained at less than 30 °. In some embodiments, a gemstone (such as a diamond) is measured from the pavilion angle. In some embodiments, the device is used to test bare stone of a sample. In some embodiments, the gemstone has a width of at least 1 mm or wider for testing. It is recommended to collect signals from the stone table for maximum sensitivity; however, as long as the signal is strong enough, it is feasible to perform the test from the pavilion or other surface. In some embodiments, if the diameter of the diamond is less than 1.5 mm, a user should avoid performing tests from the kiosk or pointed bottom to prevent damage to the fiber head. In some embodiments, for example, for bare diamonds, direct contact of the probe head with the sample being tested should be avoided. FIG. 6A shows ten sample gemstones (diamonds) with blue fluorescence of different levels identified by a fluorescent colorimeter. The table in Figure 6B lists the specific measurements performed on each sample gem. Based on the intensity of the fluorescent emission and the calculated N3 / Raman value, the sample stones 1 to 6 were identified as natural. Stone # 7 to # 10 does not show the fluorescence under an LWUV lamp or a fluorescent device and will be cited for further analysis. FIG. 6C depicts the fluorescence intensity of the same 10 stones, the display device of which is highly sensitive. In some embodiments, it is possible to improve the detection sensitivity by increasing the exposure time. FIG. 6D illustrates the effect of long exposure. Here, sample stones # 1 to # 6 show the same fluorescent profile as the measurement in FIG. 6B. In addition, by increasing the exposure time for stones # 7 to # 10, although similarly weaker fluorescent contours were observed for stones # 7 and # 8. The analysis in FIG. 6D further identifies stones # 7 and # 8 as natural stones. Fluorescence detection based on the presence of N3 defects is used as an example in describing current systems and methods. The scope of the invention should not be limited in any way. In some embodiments, some natural diamonds exhibit no N3 defects to detect fluorescence. For example, strong A center diamonds display white fluorescence. Diamonds with a 480 nm absorption band exhibit yellow fluorescence. See, eg, Figure 6E. Hardware and / or software (see below) adjustments can be used to achieve this fluorescent detection and identify natural gems (such as diamonds). And based on these fluorescent patterns, the analysis in FIG. 6E further identifies stones # 9 and # 10 as natural stones. As disclosed herein, N3
Defects and corresponding fluorescence can be used to detect natural diamonds. In some embodiments, a diamond may not have enough N3
Defects resulting in sufficient data for detection, or may have a quenchable N3
Other shortcomings of fluorescent signals. In some embodiments, other fluorescent data, including (but not limited to) green fluorescent light, white fluorescent light, green fluorescent light, or yellow fluorescent light, can be used to facilitate the detection of natural diamond. In some embodiments, division by N may be used3
Extra fluorescence data in addition to fluorescence data. In some embodiments, the different level or type analyses shown in FIGS. 6A to 6F may be combined as a sequential step in a round of optical / fluorescent analysis. This combination can be achieved through software integration. For example, optical analysis can begin with the detection of the most common marks or defects in natural stones, and then be followed by methods for detecting relatively rare marks or defects. For example, in the examples shown in Figures 6A to 6F, N3 defects are most common and can be used to detect most natural stones (Stones # 1 to # 8) with a simple change in exposure time. Yellow fluorescence is relatively rare, but can be detected in stones # 9 and # 10. In some embodiments, the methods and systems disclosed herein are used to identify natural colorless diamonds in the D to Z grading range (see, for example, Figures 7 and 8). In some embodiments, the methods and systems disclosed herein can be used to detect treated pink diamonds (see, eg, FIG. 9). In some embodiments, the methods and systems disclosed herein are used to identify natural colored diamonds. Exemplary colored gemstones include, but are not limited to, ruby, sapphire, corundum, topaz, emerald, spinel, garnet, vermiculite, and the like. The brightness spectrum of colored stones of natural origin reveals different light emission patterns (see, for example, Figure 10). As revealed in this article, characteristic fluorescence from gemstones can be used to identify the type of minerals embedded in the sample stone, thereby identifying diamonds, corundum (ruby, sapphire), spinel, emerald, and sapphire Stone) and some topaz and garnet. In some embodiments, one or more libraries of brightness spectra of different types of gemstones can be established, from colorless to near colorless diamonds, pink diamonds and rubies, sapphire, corundum, topaz, emerald, spinel, garnet,黝 curtain stone and other. In some embodiments, one set of brightness signature curves for each type of gemstone may be established. In one aspect, this article discloses a software platform for operating and controlling gem selection. Consistent with the analysis disclosed in this article, one of the software platforms of current systems and methods may include a user interface for implementing one of two important types of functions: calibration and sample analysis. In some embodiments, a calibration may include an ambient light calibration. Ambient light calibration is required every time the user launches the software. The environmental spectrum depends on the background spectrum of the workstation. It is recommended to operate this function to maintain sensitivity after any potential background spectrum changes and before using the software. In some embodiments, a calibration may also include a dark calibration. In some embodiments, dark calibration may be optional. For example, when dark calibration data is not available, for example, when data is lost or when first using a new sensor for the first time, the software interface will ask a user to perform a dark calibration. In some embodiments, during the dark calibration, the fiber optic probe is removed and the empty port for connecting the probe may be covered by the connector cover. In some embodiments, the system can be set to perform calibration periodically. In some embodiments, the system can be set to perform calibration automatically whenever the system restarts. When performing sample analysis, the system may include a preset exposure time for collecting fluorescence data for a specific sample. In some embodiments, the system may automatically adjust the exposure time depending on the signals collected during a particular data collection round. In some embodiments, when the data indicates ambiguous results, the system may present an option to the user to repeat the analysis of a particular sample. In some embodiments, when the fluorescent signature of interest is close to the main feature of ambient light (between 450 nm and 650 nm), one of the calibration procedures triggered includes conditions similar to those of an actual measurement procedure Collect an environmental spectrum. Environmental spectra are collected by moving the probe close to the sample while the UV source is off. In some embodiments, after the environmental spectrum is collected, both the environmental spectrum and the measured spectrum are normalized to a 0 to 1 ratio and the scale factor is recorded. In some embodiments, the location of the peak or local maximum in the environmental spectrum is identified and used as a checkpoint. In the same ambient light calibration procedure, a weight is assigned to the normalized ambient spectrum. In some embodiments, the weights begin with 0. In some embodiments, the weights start at 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and so on. When the UV light source is turned on, the measurement spectrum of one of the gemstones is also collected. The measurement spectrum can be normalized. Subsequently, the weighted environmental spectrum is subtracted from the normalized measured spectrum. Next, check the smoothness of the spectral curve around the previously identified checkpoint. If the smoothness meets the requirements, a calibrated measurement spectrum is returned. If the smoothness does not meet the requirements, the weight of the normalized environmental spectrum can be adjusted by 0.05. As disclosed herein, adjustments can be an increase or a decrease. The smooth fitting step may be an iterative procedure. The weight adjustment can be automatically generated according to a preset standard or manually entered by a user. In some embodiments, an assembly structure may be applied to extract an optimization weight. After the assembly step, the calibrated measurement spectrum can be scaled back to its original scale and used in further analysis. As disclosed herein, if ambient light is provided by one or more fluorescent lamps, calibration is mandatory because peaks from a fluorescent lamp can overwhelm the diamond's fluorescent spectrum.Examples
The following non-limiting examples are provided to further illustrate embodiments of the invention disclosed herein. Those skilled in the art should understand that the techniques disclosed in the examples below have found methods that work well in the practice of the present invention and can therefore be considered as examples that constitute their mode of practice. However, given the present invention, those skilled in the art should understand that many changes can be made in the specific embodiment disclosed and still obtaining a similar or similar result without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.Examples 1 Exemplary N 3 analysis
FIG. 7A shows an exemplary N3 fluorescence spectrum of a natural diamond. Here, three peaks are identified between 410 nm and 450 nm. The selected data is extracted from each peak to calculate a characteristic that can represent the peak. For example, for each of the three peaks shown in FIG. 7A, a peak intensity value and a reference intensity value are determined. Next, calculate a peak-to-reference ratio. In the example shown in Figure 7A, the peak intensity at 415.6 nm is most representative. N3 has a zero phonon at 415.6 nm at room temperature, and the analysis disclosed herein is to confirm this peak and its opposite side peak. This ratio analysis is only one of many ways to achieve peak analysis. In some embodiments, a peak at 415.6 nm is used because the position of this peak is very stable at room temperature. As disclosed herein, multiple spectra can be collected to determine multiple peaks and their corresponding peak-to-reference ratios. One or more peaks may be selected for further processing based on the peak ratio. Not all peaks need to be used in subsequent analyses. FIG. 7B shows an example of characterizing a fluorescent band. The quality of a fluorescent band is confirmed based on several parameters, including a central intensity value, a bandwidth in nm, and a reference intensity value. In this example, the reference intensity value is determined based on the fluorescence spectrum of an HPHT synthetic diamond, which is used as a negative control. As illustrated, it is still possible to use the center and bandwidth to identify this type of fluorescent spectrum from a natural diamond. In contrast, HPHT synthetic diamonds do not exhibit a strong fluorescent band.Examples 2 Colorless diamond analysis
Figure 8 shows the analysis results of colorless diamonds. Current method (using N3
Analysis) can correctly identify 97% of the 1660 natural diamonds and 1077 synthetic melee diamonds tested. An additional 2% of natural diamonds are further identified based on their fluorescence spectrum; for example, based on the center bandwidth of the fluorescence spectrum (eg, Figure 7B). Detects synthetic diamonds and diamond simulants with 100% accuracy. On the right in Figure 8, the emission or brightness curve of a natural raw diamond is compared with the emission or fluorescence curve of a typical synthetic diamond. These curves depict fluorescence emission in the visible range from slightly above 400 nm (determined by a long-pass filter) to about 750 nm, which covers the spectrum from purple to red. As depicted, upon exposure to a UV light source, a synthetic diamond does not exhibit observable emissions in the detection range. On the other hand, diamonds of natural origin exhibit significant light emission. In some embodiments, some natural diamonds do not have detectable N3
spectrum.Examples 3 Pink diamond analysis
Different types of treatments, such as high temperature and high pressure (HPHT), radiation and / or annealing, have been used to enhance the color appearance of pink diamonds. However, after the procedure, it also magnifies or introduces some features that are very difficult to find in natural untreated pink diamonds. Figure 9 shows the analysis results of pink diamonds by comparing the spectral characteristics of a natural pink diamond and a treated pink diamond. In this example, characteristic fluorescence can be used to identify pink diamonds that have been processed through temperature or pressure. The top spectrum is the fluorescence curve of a natural pink diamond, while the bottom curve shows the fluorescence spectrum of a treated pink diamond. Of note, a natural pink diamond does not show significant emission after 540 nm (specifically, after 560 nm or 580 nm). Treated pink diamonds exhibit extreme emission between 540 nm and 660 nm. In particular, observations of different fluorescent peaks in the orange range of a treated pink diamond between 560 nm and 580 nm can be used as a signature reference for identifying a treated pink diamond. On the one hand, treated (color-enhanced) pink diamonds exhibit the following characteristics that are rare in natural pink diamonds: peak at 504 (H3), 575 (N-V)0
Peak and 637 (N-V)-
At the peak. On the other hand, most natural untreated pink diamonds do not have a clear 575 nm peak. These peaks can be used individually or in combination to identify processing. These features arise during the color enhancement process.Examples 4 Extra Type Gems
Many minerals are colored by metal ion impurities. In addition to changing the appearance of their minerals and gems, the part of the metal ions can also contribute to fluorescence. For example, red fluorescent light is one of the important reasons for many minerals in the chromium system. Based on the fluorescence spectrum, the brightness spectrum of these gems can be used to identify their corresponding mineral types. Figure 10 shows the analysis results of gemstones of different colors, showing the brightness characteristics of 6 types of colored stones covering a significant breadth of available colored stones. In this example, the methods and systems disclosed herein are used to identify mineral types of gemstones of different colors. Exemplary colored gemstones include, but are not limited to, ruby, sapphire, corundum, topaz, emerald, spinel, garnet, vermiculite, and the like. The brightness spectrum of colored stones of natural origin reveals different light emission patterns. For example, chromium is the major trace element that contributes to the red fluorescence of these minerals. Excited by near-violet light, more than 90% of corundum and spinel, more than 95% of emeralds, and more than 80% of mullite produce distinct red fluorescent characteristics. In addition, parts of topaz and garnet also produce discernible spectra. By using the peak position and bandwidth, we have created a gem recognition algorithm that can quickly identify the corresponding mineral type.Examples 5 Sample user interface
11A to 11F show sample screen shots from a sample software program for operating and controlling a gem screening device. A user can launch the program by double-clicking the shortcut icon depicted in FIG. 11A. The welcome page display program number shown in FIG. 11A. At this step, the software can detect the presence of an optical sensor. If the sensor is not detected, a user can be advised to close the software and check the USB connection. It is possible to perform the ambient light calibration by selecting the ambient light calibration function shown in FIG. 11B to start the menu. Before calibration can proceed, the LED light source needs to be turned on. A user should touch the sample (diamond) lightly with a fiber optic probe, and then click "start". Typical spectra of common light sources are contained in Figure 11C. By clicking the start icon on the dark calibration menu (for example, see FIG. 11D), the software will automatically calibrate the dark signal. Dark calibration is used as a negative control, which indicates that no measurement is needed to start. Once completed, a user can click a "Next" icon to complete the dark calibration. After calibration, a user can turn on the LED light source and continue the gem test, as shown in Figure 8E. A user can use a fiber optic probe to lightly touch a sample gem (eg, a diamond). The recognition results can be presented by both pictures and speech. The software can run in continuous mode until the user presses "Stop Test". In some embodiments, the green check mark indicates "passed"; and the yellow question mark indicates "commit", as shown in the following table.
Note: Of the natural diamonds, approximately 1% of the stones will be "submitted" by this device for further testing. At the interface depicted in FIG. 11E or FIG. 11F, a user may choose to end the test by clicking "Stop Test". 12A to 12E illustrate another exemplary user interface. The sample screenshots are from another sample software program (eg, Figure 1F and Figure 1G) that uses a built-in microcomputer to operate and control a gem screening device. Here, a touch screen is used. Menu options for performing specific tasks are presented as buttons on the touch screen. Instead of pushing a physical button on the device, a user can now touch an option on the touch screen (eg, a calibration button in FIG. 12A and a test button in FIG. 12B). Figures 12C to 12E show that the analysis can be stopped at any stage; for example, after returning a pass or submitting results (e.g., Figures 12C and 12D) or during analysis (e.g., Figure 12E). The user interface shown in FIGS. 12A to 12E is relatively simple, which can realize a simple and compact device design. Having described the invention in detail, it should be understood that modifications, variations and equivalent embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the scope of the accompanying patent application. In addition, it should be understood that all examples in the present invention are provided as non-limiting examples. The various methods and techniques described above provide several ways to implement the invention. Of course, it should be understood that not all the objectives or advantages described may be achieved according to any one of the specific embodiments described herein. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art should recognize that these methods can be performed in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without the need to achieve other as taught or suggested herein. Goal or advantage. This article mentions various advantages and disadvantages alternatives. It should be understood that some preferred embodiments specifically include one advantage feature, another advantage feature, or several advantage features, while others specifically exclude one disadvantage feature, another disadvantage feature, or several disadvantage features, and the others specifically include one advantage A feature, another advantage feature, or several advantages feature alleviates a disadvantage feature. In addition, those skilled in the art will recognize the utility of various features from different embodiments. Similarly, the various elements, features, and steps discussed above, as well as other known equivalents of each such element, feature, or step, can be mixed and matched by those skilled in the art to perform methods in accordance with the principles described herein. Among the various elements, features, and steps, some elements, features, and steps will be specifically included in different embodiments, and others will be specifically excluded in different embodiments. Although the invention has been disclosed in the context of certain embodiments and examples, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of the invention extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and / or the like Uses and modifications and equivalents. Numerous variations and alternative elements have been disclosed in embodiments of the invention. However, those skilled in the art should understand further changes and alternative components. In some embodiments, it should be understood that the numbers used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention express the number of ingredients, properties such as molecular weight, reaction conditions, etc., as modified by the term "about" in some examples. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and the scope of the accompanying patent application for the invention are approximate values, which may vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, numerical parameters should be interpreted in view of the reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Although numerical ranges and parameters describing the broad scope of some embodiments of the present invention are approximate, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as accurately as possible. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective test measurements. In some embodiments, the terms "a / an" and "a" are used to describe the background of a specific embodiment of the present invention (especially in the background of some of the scope of the following patent application for invention) "(The)" and similar references may be interpreted to cover both the singular and the plural. The statement of a range of values herein is intended only as a shorthand method of individually referring to one of the separated values falling within that range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, individual values are incorporated into the specification as if they were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise explicitly denied by context. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (eg, "such as") provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention as otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element that is essential to the practice of the invention. The group of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting. Each group of components may be referenced and claimed individually or in combination with other components or any combination of other elements of the groups found herein. One or more components of a group may be included in or deleted from one of the groups for convenience and / or patentability reasons. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the description herein is deemed to contain the group as modified, thereby satisfying the written description of all Markush groups used in the scope of the accompanying invention application patent. A preferred embodiment of the invention is described herein. Those skilled in the art will understand the changes in their preferred embodiments after reading the foregoing description. It is expected that those skilled in the art may adopt such changes, if appropriate, and that the present invention may be practiced in a manner different from that specifically described herein. Accordingly, many embodiments of the present invention include all modifications and equivalents of the present invention with the subject matter described in the scope of the patent application for an invention permitted by applicable law. In addition, any combination of the above elements in all possible variations of the invention is covered by the invention, unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise explicitly denied by the context. In addition, numerous references and printed publications have been cited throughout this specification. Each of the above cited references and printed publications is individually incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Finally, it should be understood that the embodiments of the invention disclosed herein illustrate the principles of the invention. Other modifications that may be employed are within the scope of the invention. Thus, by way of example, and without limitation, alternative configurations of the invention may be utilized in accordance with the teachings herein. Accordingly, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the embodiments as accurately shown and described.